IntelliTechs ยท Nov 02, 2026
Most missing-Wi-Fi problems come down to a switched-off setting or a disabled adapter, and you can fix them in a few minutes. Save the driver reinstall and the network reset for after the quick checks.
Check whether your phone can see and join the same network. If it can't, the problem sits with the modem or router.
Some laptops have a hardware switch for Wi-Fi, or a function key with an antenna icon. If it's off, Windows won't list any networks.
Windows key + A opens Quick Settings, where Airplane mode also lives. Toggling it on and off once can bring the Wi-Fi icon back.
You can also run the Network and Internet troubleshooter from the Get Help app.
If the adapter isn't listed at all, Windows isn't detecting it. Jump to the driver step below, and if that fails the card itself may be faulty.
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